flooded street Severe weather events and natural disasters — from storm-induced power outages to flooding — can cause a variety of challenges in and around your home. From protecting your family’s food supply to preserving your home and landscape, the information below can help residents prepare for and respond to the impacts of both short- and long-term disruptions to their homes and property.

If you have questions about food safety during an emergency, call the MSU Extension Food Safety Consumer Hotline at 1-877-643-9882.

Food Safety Resources

Keep or toss? How long food lasts in the refrigerator during a power outage

Published on September 10, 2024
Food safety is a major concern for food kept in the refrigerator during a power outage.
Keep or toss? How long food lasts in the freezer during a power outage

Published on September 10, 2024
Food safety is a major concern for food kept in the freezer during a power outage.
Keeping food safe during a power outage

Published on June 12, 2023
Keeping cold food safe during a power outage is vital in preventing foodborne illness.
Food safety emergency preparedness for families

Published on March 5, 2021
Disasters and emergencies can happen anytime. Be prepared with safe food and water.
Food safety before and after a flood

Published on March 5, 2021
Food safety tips to prepare for and recover from flooding.

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Home, Property, and Landscape Resources

Protecting your septic system after a flood

Published on August 28, 2023
With one in five U.S. households depending on septic systems to treat their wastewater, knowing how to protect your system after a major flood could save your system from expensive repairs.
Will my turf recover from recent flooding?

Published on April 10, 2023
Recent rainfall events caused flooding on golf courses, lawns and other turf areas. Depending on how long the turf was submerged and whether soil deposition occurred will determine whether turf survives.
My backyard is under water—should I be worried about my trees?

Published on April 6, 2017
Most trees can tolerate periods of flooding while they are still dormant.
Cleaning up damaged trees after a windstorm

Published on March 9, 2017
Use caution when dealing with downed trees and limbs and don’t hesitate to call a professional.
Should I be worried if flood waters reach my well?

Published on April 23, 2014
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality urges caution. Flood waters can carry contaminants into residential well water supplies.